As UK funeral expenses soar, options like comparison websites, direct cremations, and prepaid funeral plans become more crucial, yet these alternatives carry their own warnings and considerations.
In the UK, the average cost for a traditional funeral, including burial or cremation, probate fees, flowers, and wake, now reaches approximately £9,658. Despite this high cost, comparison websites offer the option to find basic price quotes, but caution is advised regarding potential extra fees.
Fran Hall from the Good Funeral Guide suggests the use of independent funeral directors for their flexibility in cost. Making choices about the type of funeral—cremation or burial, religious or secular—is fundamental. Direct cremations are a less costly alternative, but according to Poppy Mardall of Poppy’s Funerals, the absence of a ceremony might affect the mourning process.
Prepaid funeral plans have gained attention for securing funeral costs ahead of time, payable either in full or via instalments. However, such plans have received criticism over their sales approaches and overall value.
To manage rising funeral expenses, families may consider creative measures such as using personal contacts for pallbearers or sourcing flowers, or choosing less expensive time slots for cremations.
For an individual, ensuring one’s funeral wishes are known can relieve family members of some decisions. Methods to communicate these preferences include leaving a letter of wishes with the will or using online platforms.
The Financial Conduct Authority, along with organizations like the Good Funeral Guide and Which?, provide further information on these considerations, while reports from institutions like SunLife and Royal London offer insights into the costs associated with dying in the UK.